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Buck Hoist Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Laborer 3

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 2

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 2

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 1

Wichita, KS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 1

Wichita, KS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 1

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 1

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

General Laborer 1

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Responsible for operating a buck hoist safely and effectively. * Assists with demo operations. * Responsible for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance and following OSHA standards. * Adheres ...

Kinetic Construction-Line Worker

Indian Trail, NC · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

... hoist, and other equipment, as necessary. * Pull up cable by hand from large reels mounted on ... Buck Squeeze (Pole Climbing Certifications). * Proficient at operating various Construction ...

Buck Hoist Operator information

See salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do buck hoist operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for buck hoist operator in the United States is $24.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a buck hoist operator?

A buck hoist operator is a construction worker responsible for operating a buck hoist, a type of hoisting equipment used to lift and lower materials on a construction site. They must understand safety protocols, operate the machinery efficiently, and often require certification or training in crane or hoist operation. This role is essential for moving heavy loads safely and efficiently during building projects.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Buck Hoist Operators on construction sites?

Buck Hoist Operators often work in busy and dynamic construction environments, where maintaining safety is paramount. Common challenges include navigating crowded job sites, ensuring that hoist loads are properly secured, and communicating effectively with ground crews and other trades to prevent accidents. Operators must stay vigilant about equipment inspections, weight limits, and emergency protocols to minimize risks. Ongoing training and a strong safety culture are crucial in addressing these challenges and ensuring smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Buck Hoist Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Buck Hoist Operator, you need a solid understanding of construction site safety, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hoist controls, safety harnesses, and OSHA regulations is essential, and some employers may require specific equipment certifications. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe and efficient transport of personnel and materials, minimizing risks and maintaining project timelines on construction sites.

What are Buck Hoist Operators?

Buck Hoist Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating and maintaining temporary construction elevators, known as buck hoists, on large building sites. Their primary job is to safely transport personnel, tools, and materials between different floors of a construction project. Operators must follow strict safety protocols, conduct regular equipment checks, and communicate effectively with site supervisors. They play a crucial role in keeping construction projects running efficiently by ensuring timely and secure movement on site.

Will heavy equipment operators be replaced by AI?

Heavy equipment operators, including Buck Hoist Operators, perform tasks that require manual control and real-time decision-making, which are difficult to fully automate with AI. While automation and remote-controlled machinery are increasing, human oversight, safety assessments, and complex problem-solving remain essential in these roles.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often crane or hoist operators, including Buck Hoist Operators, especially those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working in industrial or high-rise construction environments. These roles typically command higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements involved.

What is the highest paid crane operator?

The highest paid crane operators are often those who specialize in large, complex equipment such as tower cranes or specialized hoists like Buck Hoists, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated, often requiring extensive training and safety knowledge.

What is the difference between Buck Hoist Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectBuck Hoist OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsTypically requires hoist-specific certifications and OSHA trainingRequires crane operation licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settings, often outdoorsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, often outdoors
Industry UsageUsed mainly for hoisting materials with a buck hoist systemOperates various types of cranes for lifting and moving heavy loads
Job FocusSpecialized in operating buck hoists for material handlingOperates different crane types for diverse lifting tasks

The main difference between a Buck Hoist Operator and a Crane Operator lies in their specific equipment and certifications. Buck Hoist Operators focus on operating buck hoist systems for material hoisting, requiring specialized training. Crane Operators handle various crane types, with broader licensing requirements. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial settings, but they serve different functions based on the equipment used.

More about Buck Hoist Operator jobs
What states have the most Buck Hoist Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Buck Hoist Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Buck Hoist Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Buck Hoist Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Buck Hoist Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,681 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Buck Hoist Operator (Light Equipment Operator)

Buck Hoist Operator (Light Equipment Operator)

Brasfield & Gorrie

Dallas, GA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 hours ago


Brasfield & Gorrie rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Buck Hoist Operator

Operate or tend bucket - hoists, external elevators, or winches to lift, lower, and pull loads, materials, and personnel vertically in a safe and speedy manner on a commercial construction project using power-operated cable equipment. Must adhere to safety protocol, and work in a drug-free environment. Mechanical understanding required. Must be able to lift doors on hoist up to 50 lbs. and work at elevated heights. EOE/Vets/Disabilities


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